All 20 Hiroko Yakushimaru Movies In Order — All The Best (And Worst) Films To Watch Online
Dive into the world of Hiroko Yakushimaru and discover the magic behind her movies. In this roundup article, we’ll showcase a varied collection of her creations — from thrilling action flicks to heartwarming comedies, capturing the essence of Yakushimaru’s captivating storytelling ability and unforgettable characters.
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1. I Want To (1979)
In 1979, the thrilling and suspenseful Japanese film “I Want To” takes viewers on a time-traveling journey through the ages. This 1 hour and 25-minute action-packed adventure, directed by Kôsei Saitô, unfolds with a plot that defies expectations. A squad of Japanese Self-Defense Force soldiers find themselves inexplicably transported to the warring states era of Japan, where they become embroiled in a battle between rival samurai clans vying for supreme Shogun status.
2. Tonda kappuru (1980)
“Tonda kappuru, “ a 1980 drama film directed by Shinji Sômai, tells the heartwarming story of Tasiro Yuusuke, a tenth-grader with dreams of attending a prestigious university and pursuing a career in law. In order to achieve this goal, he enrolls in a renowned high school in Tokyo and resides with his uncle in his partially rented home.
3. Always: Sunset on Third Street (2005)
In the heart of 1958 Tokyo, a young woman named Mutsuko embarks on an unexpected journey when she’s hired by a small auto repair shop led by the temperamental yet compassionate Norifumi Suzuki. The film seamlessly blends drama and comedy as Mutsuko navigates life in the bustling city and builds bonds with Suzuki’s family, including his spirited young son, Ippei. With a strong storyline rooted in heartwarming relationships and an engaging live-action adaptation of the beloved anime, Always: Sunset on Third Street is an unforgettable family drama that proves sometimes, life takes unexpected twists for the better.
4. Operetta tanuki goten (2005)
Operetta Tanuki Goten, a delightful 2005 film, blends drama, love, and music for an unforgettable cinematic experience. Set in a world of fantasy, the banished prince Amechiyo falls deeply in love with Tanukihime, a princess of a secret race disguised as humans. As they navigate a love story filled with passion and humor, their worlds become entwined in an operetta filled with laughter, singing, and dancing.
5. Baburu e go!! Taimu mashin wa doramu-shiki (2007)
“Baburu e go! ! Taimu mashin wa doramu-shiki” is a thrilling and comedic sci-fi film released in 2007, directed by Yasuo Baba and written by Ryôichi Kimizuka. The story revolves around a brilliant researcher who, in a twist of fate, turns a common washing machine into a time-machine. The Japanese government recruits her to travel back to 1990 to prevent the announcement of a fiscal policy that would lead to the nation’s economic downfall.
6. Megane (2007)
“Megane” is a heartwarming Japanese comedy-drama film, released in 2007, directed by Naoko Ogigami and written by herself as well. The movie stars Satomi Kobayashi, Mikako Ichikawa, and Ryô Kase.
7. Always: Sunset on Third Street 2 (2007)
“Ever After: Sunset on Third Street 2” is a delightful mix of heartwarming comedy and drama that delves into the life of Chagawa, an industrious man striving to provide a better future for his young ward, Junnosuke. The young boy’s wealthy father, Kawabata, looms ominously, threatening to take him away. With the hope of offering Junnosuke a brighter life, Chagawa resolves to pursue the esteemed “Akutagawa-sho” literary award, hoping to secure the accompanying prize money. As he journeys on this quest, he encounters Mika, a young girl with a passion for literature, who assists him in finding the motivation he needs to triumph.
8. Heaven’s Door (2009)
“Heaven’s Door, “ a heart-wrenching drama released in 2009, follows Katsuhito Aoyama (played by the talented Tomoya Nagase), a skilled but struggling car mechanic, as he finds himself at a crossroads. A combination of job loss and migraines, which he discovers are caused by an inoperable brain tumor, lead Katsuhito on a journey of self-discovery and acceptance.
9. Dogwood Tree (2010)
“Dogwood Tree” takes us on a heartfelt journey through the lives of Kouhei and Sae, two young lovers whose passion is tested by the harsh realities of life. Set against the backdrop of the beautiful Japanese countryside, this drama unfolds as Kouhei, an aspiring fisherman, falls head over heels for the charming Sae.
10. Wasao (2011)
Experience the heartwarming tale of Wasao, an Akita dog who gained fame as an adorable yet ugly-looking stray in Aomori Prefecture, Japan. Based on a popular blog post about the dog, this movie transports viewers into the life of Wasao and introduces a compelling story filled with love, adventure, and camaraderie. As an unlikely hero, Wasao manages to touch the lives of everyone around him, transforming the lives of those who came across this endearing furry creature.
11. Always: Sunset on Third Street ’64 (2012)
“Always: Sunset on Third Street ‘64” is a heartwarming and nostalgic Japanese film directed by Takashi Yamazaki. Set in 1964, Rynosuke Chagawa is ecstatic about receiving a new television set to watch the Tokyo Olympics.
12. Kônotori no yurikago: Akachan post no 6 nen to sukuwareta 92 no inochi no mirai (2013)
“Kônotori no yurikago: Akachan post no 6 nen to sukuwareta 92 no inochi no mirai” is a compelling Japanese drama that delves deep into the complexities of human life, love, and loss. Directed by Fuminori Kaneko, this captivating film boasts an exceptional ensemble cast, including Sakura Andô, Kasumi Arimura, and Noriko Eguchi. With a runtime of 1 hour and 40 minutes, the movie skillfully weaves the lives of its characters together, highlighting the fragile nature of human existence.
13. Red Medaka (2015)
In the captivating drama film, Red Medaka, a 17-year-old high school student named Danshun discovers a newfound passion for Rakugaki, a traditional Japanese art form of storytelling combined with intricate drawing. After meeting Tatekagwa, a skilled and experienced Rakugaki artist, Danshun impassionedly seeks out his apprenticeship. Determined to master Rakugaki and follow his heart, Danshun quits school, diving headfirst into the life of the older man, who reluctantly takes him on as a servant and apprentice.
14. Yuriko san no ehon (2016)
Dive into the enthralling realm of “Yuriko san no ehon” (2016), a spellbinding biographical drama anchored in the engrossing historical landscape of World War II. Embark on a gripping adventure alongside the enchanting character of Onodera Yuriko, as she embarks on a transformative journey to Sweden. There, her respected husband, Major General Onodera Makoto, serves as a military attaché in Stockholm. Presented as a “god of intelligence”, Makoto excels as a prodigious intelligence officer for the Russian service of the Japanese Army General Staff. His multilingual fluency and unimpeachable reputation render him a trusted confidant for spies from numerous nations.
15. The 8-Year Engagement (2017)
“The 8-Year Engagement” (2017) is a powerful and emotionally-charged drama-romance film that delves into the tumultuous journey of a couple set to have their wedding ceremony within three months. Heartache strikes when Mai, the brides-to-be, falls critically ill and lapses into a coma, with the unfortunate circumstances of her brain damage impacting their lives, relationships, and the path they envisioned for themselves.
16. Destiny: The Tale of Kamakura (2017)
In the enchanting world of “Destiny: The Tale of Kamakura, “ mystery novelist and detective Masakazu Isshiki finds himself entangled in a web of supernatural intrigue. Set in the charming town of Kamakura, Masakazu and his wife Akiko encounter a fantastical array of creatures, gods, and spirits, as they delve into the mysteries that plague their beloved community.
17. Café Funiculi Funicula (2018)
Café Funiculi Funicula is a delightful time-traveling adventure in Japan, where customers can journey back in time while enjoying a cup of coffee. However, there are five strict rules to follow: traveling through time cannot change one’s present, it can only open or close, and only for the future. The cafe’s enigmatic chair, known as The Sands of Time, sits at the heart of the establishment, and as you take a sip of your coffee, you embark on a thrilling adventure through history.
18. Kizuna no Pedal (2019)
Kizuna no Pedal is an exhilarating sports drama film released in 2019 that left audiences breathless with its awe-inspiring storyline. Directed by Ryûichi Inomata and penned by the imaginative Yûko Matsuda, this movie takes viewers on an extraordinary journey filled with lessons of friendship, determination, and the unstoppable power of the human spirit.
19. Mio’s Cookbook (2020)
“Mio’s Cookbook, “ released in 2020, offers a heartwarming and emotional drama about the life of Mio, a talented cook who endures tragic losses and separation. Set in Japan, the story follows Mio’s journey after her parents pass away in a flood and her friend Noe becomes an oiran, or high-ranking courtesan.
20. Tonbi (2022)
Tonbi, a heart-wrenching drama by director Takahisa Zeze, follows the story of Yasuo, an orphan who loses the love of his life in a devastating accident. Yasuo is left to raise their son Akira alone, navigating the challenges of parenthood while seeking to fill the void of the love he never received as a child. Through grit and determination, Yasuo and Akira form an unbreakable bond, transforming their grief into a glowing beacon of hope.
